Freddie Mercury passed away in 1991 and since then his collection of art and items from his own personal canon has remained untouched, but no more. The pop culture icon’s entire collection of costumes, artworks, and handwritten lyrics are going up for sale at Sotheby’s.
The new exhibition/auction “Freddie Mercury: A World of His Own” has 1,500 lots including his collection of artworks from Picasso and Matisse, to costumes he wore onstage, and handwritten lyrics for “We Are the Champions” and “Killer Queen.”
It isn’t just Mercury’s own iconic items, but pieces that are a little more personal. These include his collection of Japanese costumes and art, sketchbooks of his own drawings, and a costume designed by his close friend, Elton John. One highlight includes a personalised vest adorned with images of his cats.
If you’re really into the personal stuff, there’s the Tiffany & Co. silver moustache comb he used.
The items are going to be auctioned in six London sales which are expected to generate at least £6 million ($7.5 million AUD).
They are being sold by Mary Austin, the woman whom Mercury once asked to marry, and whom he left half of his £75 million estate, including his £25 million Georgian mansion in Kensington.
“I have had the joy and privilege of living surrounded by all the wonderful things that Freddie sought out and so loved,” read Austin’s statement.
“But the years have passed, and the time has come for me to take the difficult decision to close this very special chapter in my life.”
Check out a few items below.
